Why UV Protection Matters—Even on Cloudy Days
- Northern Sight Optometry
- May 8
- 3 min read
Updated: 22 hours ago
Protecting your eyes today can preserve your vision for years to come.
When we think about sun protection, most of us picture sunscreen and floppy hats—but what about your eyes? UV protection for your eyes is just as important as protecting your skin. In fact, long-term exposure to ultraviolet (UV) rays without proper protection can lead to serious eye conditions down the road.
At Northern Sight Optometry, we want to help you protect your eyes not just during sunny summer months in Vaughan and Kleinburg — but all year round. Here’s why it matters, and what you can do.
What Are UV Rays, and Why Should We Care? 🌞
Ultraviolet (UV) rays are a form of invisible radiation from the sun. There are two main types that affect your eyes:
UVA radiation, which makes up 95% of UV rays penetrate deep into the eye causing cataracts.
UVB radiation, which makes up 5% of UV rays are more intense and can cause more immediate damage such as skin cancer.
Over time, exposure to both types can lead to permanent damage to your vision and increase your risk of certain eye diseases.
Eye Conditions Linked to UV Damage 👁
You might be surprised by how much the sun can affect your eye health. Here's what prolonged UV exposure can contribute to:
1. Cataracts
A cataract is a clouding of the eye’s natural lens. UV light speeds up this aging process, making cataracts form earlier or worsen faster. Cataracts eventually lead to cloudy or foggy vision even while wearing glasses.
2. Macular Degeneration
This age-related condition affects the central part of your vision. Research shows UV exposure may increase the risk of macular degeneration, by degrading the quality of retinal cells, which can severely affect reading and detailed vision.
3. Photokeratitis (Sunburned Eyes)
Yes, your eyes can get sunburned! Photokeratitis is a painful condition caused by intense UV exposure, often when around reflective surfaces like snow, water, or sand.
4. Pinguecula and Pterygium
These are abnormal growths on the white surface of the eye are caused by frequent sun exposure or vigorous eye rubbing. While often benign, they can cause chronic irritation and even affect vision if untreated.
5. Skin Cancer Around the Eyes
The delicate skin around your eyes is particularly vulnerable to sun damage. Eyelid cancers are not uncommon and can be harder to detect early.
Start UV Protection Young 👧🏽
Children spend more time outdoors than adults—and their eyes are still developing. In fact, the World Health Organization estimates up to 80% of a person’s lifetime UV exposure happens before the age of 18. Because a child’s lenses are clearer than an adult’s, more UV rays reach the retina.
That’s why we always recommend UV-blocking sunglasses for kids—even toddlers! Starting early builds good habits and protects their eyes from cumulative damage.
Don’t Be Fooled by Clouds ☁️
Think UV rays only matter on sunny days? Up to 90% of UV rays can still penetrate through clouds. That means your eyes are at risk even on overcast days, during early morning walks, or while driving with the windows down.
UV rays also bounce off surfaces like water, sand, snow, and concrete. That’s why we especially recommend UV protection for:
Beach or pool days
Outdoor sports or cycling
Driving
Ski trips
Gardening and yard work
How to Choose the Right Sunglasses 😎
Not all sunglasses are created equal. Darker lenses don’t necessarily mean more protection. When shopping for eyewear, make sure your lenses:
✅ Block 100% of UVA and UVB rays (look for a sticker or tag that confirms this)
✅ Wrap around or cover your eyes well, especially at the sides
✅ Fit comfortably so you’re more likely to wear them
At Northern Sight, our optician can help you pick the right lenses, whether you wear prescription glasses or not. Check out our eyewear brands that offer verified UVA and UVB protected sunglasses and schedule an eyewear appointment today to find the perfect pair for you!